Core Refusal Reason
The proposal was refused as it failed to demonstrate a genuine 'local rural housing need' in an area under strong urban influence, was deemed speculative development, and posed risks to public health and traffic safety.
Decision Maker's Conclusion
- The applicant failed to demonstrate compliance with the 'local rural housing need' criteria for an area designated as being under Strong Urban Influence, as required by Table 4.4 of the Laois County Development Plan 2021-2027.
- The development is considered speculative in nature due to the planning history of the landholding, which would set an undesirable precedent and contribute to the gradual suburbanisation and erosion of the area's rural character.
- The proposal would endanger public safety by creating a traffic hazard due to inadequate sightlines at the vehicular access and failed to prove site suitability for on-site wastewater treatment systems in accordance with EPA standards.
Cited Policies (CDP)
Table 4.4Policy RH12Policy RH10Policy RH11Policy RH13Policy DM RH 1Policy NH7Appendix 7Roads and Parking Standards
Decision Document Summary
The applicant sought permission to construct two two-storey dwellings and associated site works on a 0.55-hectare agricultural site at Ballycarnan, Portlaoise, Co. Laois. The site is located in a rural area designated as being under 'Strong Urban Influence' where housing is restricted to those with a defined local need. The application was refused because the proposal materially contravenes the County Development Plan's policies on rural housing and speculative development, lacks sufficient deta...SOURCE PDFOpen Original
Note: If code appears below, the council site is blocking the preview. Please open the original file.